Contradiction with Job 16:2
Job 16:2 describes Job's friends as "miserable comforters," contradicting Job 16:20 where he refers to them as scorners yet suggests he has an advocate in God, implying some support.
Job 16:2: I have heard many such things: miserable comforters [are] ye all. [miserable: or, troublesome]
Contradiction with Job 42:7
In Job 42:7, God rebukes Job's friends for not speaking rightly of Him as Job did, conflicting with Job 16:20 where Job still sees them as opponents but hopeful for a divine witness.
Job 42:7: And it was [so], that after the LORD had spoken these words unto Job, the LORD said to Eliphaz the Temanite, My wrath is kindled against thee, and against thy two friends: for ye have not spoken of me [the thing that is] right, as my servant Job [hath].
Contradiction with Proverbs 17:17
Proverbs 17:17 teaches that a friend loves at all times, contradicting Job 16:20 where Job's friends are considered scorners.
Proverbs 17:17: A friend loveth at all times, and a brother is born for adversity.
Contradiction with Proverbs 18:24
Proverbs 18:24 says there is a friend who sticks closer than a brother, contradicting Job 16:20 where Job feels his friends are against him.
Proverbs 18:24: A man [that hath] friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend [that] sticketh closer than a brother.
Contradiction with Psalm 55:12-14
These verses discuss betrayal by a close companion, similar to Job feeling wronged by his friends, contrasting Job 16:20's implication of seeking solace in divine friendship over human ones.
Psalm 55:12-14: For [it was] not an enemy [that] reproached me; then I could have borne [it]: neither [was it] he that hated me [that] did magnify [himself] against me; then I would have hid myself from him:
Paradox #1
The contradiction in this verse could be seen in the idea of friends being considered mockers while also seeking empathy or understanding. It creates a conflict between expecting support from those who are supposed to be close and experiencing disappointment or betrayal instead. This tension between expectation and reality can lead to questions about trust and loyalty in relationships.